Certified Transport Nurse Exam Practice 2026 – Complete Preparation Guide

Succinylcholine is known for its rapid onset and short duration of action compared to other neuromuscular blockers. It functions as a depolarizing neuromuscular blocker, which means it works by causing a rapid depolarization of the motor end plate at the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle paralysis.

The pharmacokinetics of succinylcholine are characterized by a brief action, typically lasting about 5 to 10 minutes because it is quickly hydrolyzed by plasma cholinesterase. This allows for quick recovery after administration, making it particularly useful in situations requiring rapid intubation or procedures where short-term muscle relaxation is necessary.

In contrast, other neuromuscular blockers have longer durations of action. For instance, pancuronium is a non-depolarizing agent with a longer duration, often lasting 60 to 90 minutes. Rocuronium, while having a faster onset compared to some other non-depolarizing agents, still has a longer duration of action than succinylcholine, generally in the range of 30 to 60 minutes depending on the dose. Sugammadex, while it can reverse neuromuscular blockade, is not a neuromuscular blocker in itself and